8 1/2 Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA – Italian restaurant and bar Hong Kong

Widely recognised as among Asia’s preeminent fine-dining Italian restaurants, best exemplified by its 3-Michelin star ranking for five consecutive years, 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA in Hong Kong was founded in 2010 by venerable locally-based chef Umberto Bombana. Taking its cinematically-inspired name from legendary Italian director Fellini’s masterpiece that celebrates la dolce vita – Otto e Mezzo is distinguished by its compelling combination of accomplished contemporary Italian cuisine, sophisticated chic design, and exemplary service. Located within the prestigious Landmark complex in the heart of Hong Kong’s Central business district, the elegant restaurant dining room overlooks the bustling city streets, while adjacent to the entrance, the intimate cocktail bar and lounge exudes an inviting presence as an all-day haven for relaxed conversations, sophisticated libations and delicious canapes.

Design Occupying a compact space between the reception and main dining room, the bar decor features a palette of natural timbers and neutral-toned furnishings, while soft lighting imbues a comforting ambience. Original artwork adds visual highlights, while the handsome grey marble bar underscores functionality and restrained elegance.

Cocktails Meticulously crafted classic cocktails, refreshing Italian aperitifs, and an impressive selection of premium wines by the glass are major attractions at the bar of Otto e Mezzo. Since joining as bar manager in late 2014 Devender Seghal has added his innovative influences and well-honed technique to further elevate the bar programme. Following up a stellar bar career in India (2012 Diageo World Class champion bartender), Devender last year won the Hong Kong regional final of the Bacardi Legacy Global Cocktail Competition 2015 with his entry -The Optimist – now featured as a signature at Otte e Mezzo. Among other standout signature cocktails at the bar try the 8½ Caviar Martini; Pocket Square; and 8½ Negroni.

Canapes As consummate accompaniments to the cocktails, the menu of exquisite canapes offer bite-size selections of Chef Bombana’s acclaimed contemporary Italian cuisine. Featuring highest quality fresh ingredients and elegant presentation, some of the must-try canapes include the Salmon Roll with vodka cream and calvisius elite caviar; Veal Tenderloin with tuna sauce; and Warm White Asparagus with orange and asparagus emulsion and Iberico ham.

The Otto e Mezzo Cocktail Bar & Lounge is open Monday to Saturday from midday until late. A daily “apertivo” between 5 pm and 8 pm features wines, martinis and complimentary stuzzichini sharing small plates.